The occurrence of acid reflux is due to the backwash of acids produced in the stomach into the esophagus. The situation occurs due to malfunctioning of lower esophageal sphincter, which acts as a valve between the esophagus and the stomach. The valve closes after consumption of food, thereby preventing the backwash of acids produced by the digestive system.
It is possible for a doctor to diagnose the condition as gastro esophageal reflux disease if the occurrence of the symptoms is more than thrice in a week. Many food-related factors contribute to acid reflux, which includes the position of the body after consuming a meal, the amount of food that you consume, and the type of food that you eat.
It is possible to control acid reflux by making smart decisions. Modifying the body position, eating smaller portions, and avoiding certain types of food will be helpful in improving the condition. Although there is a dispute in the medical community about the foods that cause acid reflux, several researchers agree that a few food products and beverages increase the symptoms turning the moderate condition into severe acid reflux.
What Not to Eat When You Have Acid Reflux?
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High-Fat Meals and Fried Foods
Fried foods and meals containing high-fat reduce the pressure on lower esophageal sphincter making it difficult for the stomach to empty the contents in appropriate time. It will only boost the risk factor of acid reflux symptoms. To prevent acid reflux, it is preferable to decrease the total fat intake. The following is a list of foods that you can avoid under this category:
- Avoid french fries
- Deep fried onion rings
- Butter
- Potato chips
- Whole milk
- Cheese
- Ice cream
- Creamy sauces and dips
- Salad dressings consisting of high-fat.
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Spicy Foods
Including spicy foods in the list of the menu will only worsen the acid reflux symptoms as told by the National Institute of Diabetes, Digestive, and Kidney Diseases. Several studies suggested that adding spicy foods caused burning symptoms along with abdominal pain. The situation becomes painful for a person who is already suffering from a gastrointestinal disorder. On the other hand, Capsaicin, an ingredient found in chili powder, is helpful in improving the acid reflux symptom. Although there is no particular outcome, researchers state that it requires further study.
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Fruits and Vegetables
Both vegetables and fruits are an important diet. However, certain food products in this category can elevate or worsen the acid reflux symptoms. You can avoid the following list:
- Pineapple
- Citrus fruits such as lemons, grapefruit, oranges
- Tomatoes, tomato sauce, salsa, chili, and pizza sauce
- Garlic
- Onions.
If you are still in doubt after making changes to your doubt, you can discuss the tolerance level with your dietician or consult a doctor for acid reflux treatment.
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Beverages
The common drinks that triggered the symptoms of acid reflux in people include the following:
- Alcohol
- Coffee
- Tea
- Carbonated beverages
- Citrus juices
- Tomato juice.
A few people have the tolerance towards coffee. Consuming it within the preferable levels is advisable to avoid increasing acid reflux symptoms.
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Other Medicines, Foods, and Supplements to Avoid
Other products such as medicines, supplements, and foods include:
- Chocolate
- Mint
- Supplements containing iron or potassium
- Antibiotics
- Aspirin
- Ibuprofen
- Nitrates
- Calcium channel blockers
- Processed foods
- Tricyclics
- Biophosphonates.
Adjusting diet and eating habits can help in reducing acid reflux symptoms. As you now possess the list of foods that you can avoid, it is time for you to prepare a new diet chart to eliminate acid reflux.
Also Read:
- Acid Reflux During Pregnancy: Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
- Honey is an Excellent Home Remedy for Acid Reflux
- What Causes Acid Reflux?
- How to Avoid Acid Reflux During Holiday?
- How Long Does Acid Reflux Last & What are its Effects?
- Soothing Foods for Acid Reflux|Natural Foods to Prevent Acid Reflux
